nbean1973

My '73 coupe was originally equipped with factory AC. The previous owner removed all of the AC components forward of the firewall, hoses, tubing condenser, etc. I have the original AC compressor and one AC compressor mounting bracket. I would need to purchase the remaining AC components. I am willing to do the resto/rebuild myself, however this would be my first attempt at resto/repair on AC. Is this a job better suited to a Vette resto pro? It may be cheaper to have a resto pro do the work correctly than for me to make a "money pit" on my first attempt in C3 Vette AC resto/repair. I appreciate constructive advice and recomendations.

TopGunn

I would say it depends on your ability and willingness to do a little "wrenching". If the controls in the console are still there and it's just stuff forward of the firewall that's gone, I would do it in an instant. You didn't mention if the exchanger was still in the box where the heater core is but I'm betting it is. The rest of it is just putting stuff back together and gathering the right parts. The thing you'll need to remember is that the previous owner took it out for a reason, most likely because it didn't work so be prepared to troubleshoot for leaks. Even if you have to take it to a shop for the final touches and help find problems it's still cheaper to do it yourself and you learn something in the process.

My .02.

Good luck with it, and I'm sure there's plenty of guys here that would help you out with the project.

Bill

Easy Mike

If you have reasonable mechanical ability, you should be able to do everything except charge the system. I would leave that to the pros. If you don't already have it, purchase the assembly instruction manual (AIM) and make a list of the parts you're going to need. Since there's nothing there, switching to R-134 would be easy. Good luck.

redwingvette

I completely replaced all my components 10 years ago. I replaced the evaporator, condenser, compressor, clutch, hoses, and VIR valve. All the electrical stuff inside the car still worked. I stayed with R12 when it was recharged. The VIR valve has been replaced twice since the first rebuild. If I had to do it again I would upgrade to a better system. The VIR valves were junk right from the start.

mdj21

I'm planning to do the AC in my 73. I have all of the parts for a proper conversion to 134A (just don't have the time right now)

Putting the parts in is easy. Charging the system will probably be the trickiest part for me. I want to try to do it my self to learn about AC systems. Worst case, I can take it to an AC shop for a charge and I’m only out about $60 for a vacuum pump, about $25 for some gages, and a couple of bucks for the cans of R134A.

It would be similar if you wanted to stay with R12.

Actually, the components I purchased will work with either R12 or R134A; it’s just a matter of adjusting the pressure switch for one or the other and no VIR valves to go bad on you.

good luck....

Mike

ratflinger

Look at Hot Rod Air. Their kit even uses your controls. $1100.